14 DAY TRIAL // Despite talk to the contrary and speculation that Joe Jackson, Michael’s estranged father, would put up a fight in court and perhaps even ask for the full custody of the singer’s three children, documents just surfaced show this was far from the case. Katherine Jackson was officially awarded yesterday full custody of Michael’s children and Joe Jackson actually supported her petition, TMZ says.
In court documents just obtained, Joe Jackson makes it very clear that he is not in any way opposed to the stipulation in Michael’s will that has it that his kids should be raised by their grandmother. Moreover, Joe says, he plans on doing the best he can to make the kids feel like they have both a grandmother and a grandfather, but will not become involved in raising them.
“I have had a close family relationship with these grandchildren since their birth. I do visit the family residence from time to time and will continue to do so, however I will not be involved in raising the children.” Joe Jackson says in the court papers TMZ got a hold of. This, of course, means Joe Jackson never had any intention of fighting Katherine (who is still his wife although they’ve been living separately for many years) for the children, as countless media reports had it.
Furthermore, Joe insists he’s OK with Michael leaving the three children with his wife. “I understand that all decision-making authority regarding the children will rest with Katherine Jackson. Katherine Jackson is a wonderful caretaker and guardian, and has done an excellent job raising our children and other grandchildren.” Michael’s father further explains.
As we also informed you the other day, Katherine Jackson was given full and permanent custody of Prince Michael, Paris and Prince Michael II (also known as “Blanket”), while Prince and Paris’ mother, Debbie Rowe, will get visitation rights and keeps her parental rights. Not long ago, Joe Jackson was singing a different tune than the one in court, telling the media the children should be raised by him and Katherine as a family, which also prompted speculation he was trying to launch their careers in showbiz at such a young age, just like he also did with Michael.